Pistols, rifles, revolvers, machine and submachine guns through history in 1100 clear photographs.

This encyclopedia of firearms is both an authoritative reference work and a stunning visual directory, explaining the development of arms through the centuries. The chronological survey begins with gunpowder and the first crude 14th-century hand cannons, and continues through handguns and the development of machine and submachine guns. Each gun’s features are listed, as are the military, political and technological contexts in which the gun was developed. A full list of manufacturers and a glossary complete this easy-to-use encyclopedia. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in gun manufacture and conflicts of war.

• An authoritative historical guide to the world of military, antique and law-enforcement firearms

• Features the world’s most important guns, from the medieval hand cannon and the flintlock musket to the Luger P08 pistol and today’s FN Minimi light machine gun

About the Authors: Will Fowler is the author of over 30 books covering conflicts from the 19th century to the Second Gulf War. Anthony North has worked for many years at the Victoria & Albert Museum, giving him a wide knowledge of firearms. Charles Stronge is an experienced writer who has worked as an Editor for Jane’s Information Group. Patrick Sweeney competes, teaches and trains others in the use of firearms, and he is the Handgun Editor for Guns & Ammo magazine.